Choosing the right food for your canine companion is a critical decision for their overall health and well-being. The WholeHearted brand offers a range of grain-free dry dog food options, aiming to provide a nutritious and palatable diet. This review delves into the specifics of their dry grain-free recipes, analyzing ingredients, nutritional content, and overall value to help pet owners make an informed choice.
WholeHearted Grain-Free dog food is manufactured by a company that emphasizes a commitment to pet nutrition. The product line includes 17 different dry recipes, with individual ratings varying from 3.5 to 5 stars, averaging a solid 4 stars for the entire range. This indicates a generally high standard across their formulations, catering to various life stages and breed sizes.
Recipe and Label Analysis
To provide a comprehensive assessment, the “WholeHearted Senior Chicken” recipe was chosen for a detailed examination of its ingredients and nutritional profile.
Ingredients Analysis
The primary ingredient in this formula is chicken, a high-quality source of protein. However, it’s important to note that like all fresh meats, chicken contains a significant amount of water which is reduced during the cooking process. Following chicken, chicken meal is listed. This ingredient is a concentrated form of protein, significantly more potent than fresh chicken.
Peas and pea flour are also prominent, serving as valuable sources of carbohydrates and natural fiber. However, their protein content (around 25%) must be factored in when assessing the overall meat-based protein contribution of the food. Similarly, lentils, another legume, provide good carbohydrates and fiber, but also contribute to the protein count.
Flaxseed is included, offering a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, though it too contains a notable percentage of protein. Tomato pomace, a by-product of tomato processing, is present. While some view it as a beneficial fiber source, others consider it a filler ingredient. Its impact in this formula is likely minimal given its position in the ingredient list.
Chicken fat is a quality ingredient, providing essential omega-6 fatty acids crucial for canine health. The inclusion of “natural flavors” offers palatability but lacks specific detail.
Key beneficial additions include taurine, an amino acid vital for heart health, and chicory root, a source of inulin that supports digestive health by promoting beneficial bacteria. The presence of dried fermentation products suggests the addition of probiotics to aid digestion.
However, the inclusion of sodium selenite, a synthetic form of selenium, is noted as a potential concern compared to more natural sources like selenium yeast. On a positive note, the food contains chelated minerals, which are more easily absorbed by the dog’s system.
Nutrient Analysis
Based on its ingredient composition, WholeHearted Grain-Free Dog Food demonstrates an above-average nutritional profile for a dry kibble. The estimated dry matter protein content stands at 30%, with 11% fat and approximately 51% carbohydrates.
Compared to the average of the brand’s offerings, which are around 29% protein, 16% fat, and 48% carbohydrates, this recipe is fairly representative. The fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 54%. These figures suggest a kibble that contains a substantial amount of meat-based protein when the protein contributions from peas, pea flour, lentils, and flaxseed are considered.
WholeHearted Dog Food Recall History
As of January 2026, there are no recalls on record for the WholeHearted brand. This is a positive indicator of the brand’s commitment to product safety and quality control.
Our Rating of WholeHearted Grain-Free Dog Food
WholeHearted Grain-Free dry dog food earns a 4-star rating. The brand utilizes a significant amount of named meat meals as the primary source of animal protein, contributing to a well-balanced nutritional profile. The inclusion of beneficial ingredients like taurine and chicory root, along with chelated minerals, further enhances its quality. While the presence of sodium selenite is a minor point of consideration, the overall formulation and lack of recalls make it a highly recommended option for many dog owners.
Compare WholeHearted Dog Food
WholeHearted Grain-Free dog food offers a competitive option within the premium pet food market. Its focus on grain-free formulations, quality protein sources, and beneficial additives positions it favorably against many other brands. For owners seeking a reliable, well-rated grain-free diet for their dogs, WholeHearted presents a compelling choice.
A Final Word
The Dog Food Advisor operates independently and does not accept payments or free samples for special consideration in its reviews. Referral fees are earned from online retailers when readers purchase products through links on the site, which helps support the operational costs of providing free, unbiased reviews. For further details, please refer to the site’s Disclaimer and Disclosure page.
